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Thursday, April 18, 2024 | Back issues
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Steven Tyler’s Lawyer Ducks Suit From Agents

(CN) - California anti-SLAPP law bars some claims Steven Tyler's former agents filed against entertainment attorney Dina LaPolt, a judge ruled Friday.

In an October 2012 complaint, Kovac Media Group dba Tenth Street Entertainment claimed that LaPolt crossed the line when Tyler's contract as an "American Idol" judge came up for renegotiation in 2011.

It said LaPolt disclosed Kovac's negotiating strategies regarding Tyler's contract to curry favor with executives on "American Idol."

Kovac sought $8 million plus punitive damages.

LaPolt moved to dismiss three claims under anti-SLAPP (strategic lawsuit against public participation) law. California is one of several states that uses such laws to deter legal threats meant to censor and intimidate people.

Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Joseph Kalin granted the motion Friday.

The court also ruled in LaPolt's favor on two additional claims relating to the band Motley Crue, she said in a statement through the marketing firm Gorgeous PR.

Those claims failed because Kovac failed to plead the necessary elements, including any breach by LaPolt of her duties to the band or any damages, according to the statement.

LaPolt's attorney, Christine Lepera of Mitchell Silberberg & Knupp, applauded the ruling.

"The claims against Dina LaPolt are baseless and this decision at this early of stage of litigation vindicates LaPolt's reputation," Lepera said in a statement. "As a next step, we look forward to recovering legal fees for this ill-advised lawsuit."

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